The United States remains a long-term investor and strategic partner of the Republic of Moldova, with clear priorities in the field of energy security, economic cooperation and strengthening of state institutions. These statements were made during the visit to Chisinau, on January 29-30, by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State of the USA, Christopher Smith.
The American official has returned to the Republic of Moldova after his last visit in September 2024 and was accompanied by the Senior Advisor of the State Department for European and Eurasian Affairs, Wyatt Toehlke. The delegation also included the acting assistant to the US Secretary of War, Kathleen Heesch-Eccles, a fact that underscores Washington’s constant commitment to common security.
During the visit, Christopher Smith met with Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu and Foreign Minister Mihai Popsoi, discussing also about the reconstruction of Ukraine and the role that the Republic of Moldova can play in this process, Chisinau becoming a regional logistic and economic corridor.
2 billion dollars invested in 35 years
The American official emphasized that, in the 35 years of independence of the Republic of Moldova, the United States has invested approximately 2 billion dollars in essential areas such as security, defense and energy security. According to him, bilateral cooperation has produced significant results, with benefits for both countries.
His visit to Chisinau focused on expanding trade and investment relations, strengthening energy cooperation and deepening collaboration in the field of law enforcement and border security.
Energy investments and reducing dependence on Russia
Energy represents a major pillar of Moldovan-American cooperation, especially after Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Christopher Smith highlighted the $130 million investment in the Straseni-Gutinas power line, part of efforts to reduce the Republic of Moldova’s dependence on Russian energy resources.
He mentioned that, due to the investments made, the Republic of Moldova has access to more stable and safer energy sources and has begun, for the first time, to procure liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States, delivered through regional infrastructure.
Regarding the information about the possible sale of Lukoil’s international assets to the American company Carlyle, the official stated that the American authorities will collaborate with interested investors. The involvement of American companies in the regional energy sector, he said, means more reliable and safer energy sources, essential for economic development.
Cooperation in the field of justice and security
In the field of law enforcement, the United States has supported the justice sector reform in the Republic of Moldova, providing expertise and consultation. The American official mentioned that this cooperation has contributed to the strengthening of the act of justice and a closer operational collaboration between the institutions of the two states.
He also provided concrete examples, including the extradition from the Republic of Moldova to the USA of a person accused of terrorism, as well as the repatriation of some Moldovan citizens sought by the authorities in Chisinau. Regarding border security, Washington supports the protection of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Moldova.
Temporary suspension of some immigration visas
Commenting on the temporary suspension of processing certain immigration visas, Christopher Smith pointed out that the measure is applied globally and does not specifically target the Republic of Moldova. The suspension applies exclusively to immigration visas, not those for studies, tourism or travel.
According to this, the evaluation takes into account criteria related to the security of the United States and the ability of individuals to support themselves economically. Washington maintains a close dialogue with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova throughout this process.
Support for sovereignty and peaceful regulation of the Transnistrian conflict
The American official stated that the Washington administration strongly supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova. In the current regional context, the United States promotes peaceful conflict resolution and supports processes that can lead to a lasting settlement of the Transnistrian conflict.
When asked if the USA could contribute to bringing Chisinau and Tiraspol back to the negotiating table, Christopher Smith stated that Washington is prepared to offer its good offices and necessary support, but the decision on how to advance the dialogue belongs to the parties. He mentioned that there are some positive signals that could create premises for progress in the near future.
Christopher Smith’s visit takes place in a symbolic year for both countries: in 2026, the United States will mark 250 years of independence and the Republic of Moldova – 35 years. According to the American delegation, the two countries celebrate enduring ties, common values and the shared interest in becoming safer, stronger and more prosperous.
